Clash Of The Champions!

Sportstar's March 1 edition focuses on the ICC Champions Trophy, which is making a comeback after eight years. This edition also provides a review of the men's Hockey India League 2024-25 as well as Anshul Jubli's controversial loss at UFC 312.

Happy reading!

A tournament to celebrate, a test to pass

The 50-over Champions Trophy marks?Pakistan’s first global event?since 1996?— a moment of celebration for fans and a stern test of the country’s preparedness.?While Pakistan was initially announced as a co-host for the 2011 World Cup alongside India and Sri Lanka, it was stripped of the opportunity by the ICC following the terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009.?That incident had a lasting impact on cricket in the country. With international teams unwilling to travel, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had to make significant efforts to keep the game alive. Shayan Acharya analyses the country's readiness for this important event.

Title favourite, yes, but battle-hardened? Not so much

India will head into the 2025 Champions Trophy on the back of one of the leanest build-ups it has ever had for a multi-team event in recent years. Since its defeat in the 2023 World Cup final to Australia, India has played just nine ODIs — the fewest of any team set to take part in the Champions Trophy and the second-lowest overall, behind Ireland. Do these numbers suggest enough preparation for the Champions Trophy? Pranay Rajiv takes a closer look.

All questions about Rohit Sharma’s place in the team have been hit for a massive six

'The Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, hitting a sparkling century was perhaps even more reason for celebration than India winning the match and, with it, another one-day series against England. Cricket is a team game, but it’s also important, especially ahead of a world tournament like the ICC Champions Trophy, for the lead actors to show that they are in good form and raring to go. There are only a couple of loose ends to be tied up, and that is Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the Champions Trophy and Virat Kohli getting back among the hundreds.' Excerpt from Sunil Gavaskar's?latest column.

Resurgence of Hockey India League: A talent pipeline for the future

The much-anticipated return of the Hockey India League (HIL) lived up to expectations, providing a crucial platform for emerging talent. New stars made their mark, fresh faces found an opportunity to shine, and young players tested themselves alongside some of the world's best. However, the tournament's success was somewhat marred by concerns over low attendance and scheduling issues. Aashin Prasad presents a deep-dive review.

Early blunder or early stoppage?

Anshul Jubli's UFC 312 bout against debutant Quillan Salkilld ended in just 19 seconds. Anshul dropped his guard after a left hook, allowing Salkilld to land a decisive right. The referee stopped the fight, sparking debate as Anshul remained conscious and protested the early stoppage in the ring. Nigamanth P reviews the bout.